Dayko, the Hero White Labrador
On the 16th of April 2016 a huge, 7,8 magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Ecuador. At least 659 people died and more than 27,000 people injured and it has been the deadliest earthquake in South America since 1999 when more than 1,000 people were killed in a quake in neighbouring Colombia.
National and international search and rescue teams arrived to the stricken area very shortly. Many aftershocks, a possible tsunami, further building or bridge collapses, damaged communication infrastructure were the main factors complicating the rescue efforts.
Four-legged help
The use of dogs in search and rescue missions is very common as well-trained rescue dogs are able to detect human scent and find survivors who may not otherwise have been seen. This happened in Ecuador too where a hero white Labrador named Dayko saved 7 people. However a mixture of heat, working tirelessly and dehydration took its toll on the brave 4 years old dog who suddenly died. This was a tragic end for him. Dayko was part of a local fire service team who joined the rescue efforts in the Ecuadorian town, Pedernales.
His death was announced on Facebook and the heavy-hearted post was shared by more than 8,000 people. Dayko was hailed a hero for his life, work and saving people. Ecuadorians will never forget him.
